The simple answer? Yes, the Matildas have won the Asian Cup — but only once so far. Their single triumph came in the 2010 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, a breakthrough that still resonates in Australian football. In this article, ZizaGoal will take you through the key moments of their win, other finals they’ve been in, and what that win means as they chase more continental glory.
What Is The AFC Women’s Asian Cup
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup is Asia’s premier competition for national women’s football teams, organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Teams from countries across Asia (and since Australia joined AFC in 2006, Australia included) compete every few years to be crowned continental champions. It also often serves as qualification for the World Cup.
The Matildas’ Asian Cup History
Here’s the detailed snapshot of when Australia reached the final and their performance:
2010 – Their Maiden Triumph
- Held in Chengdu, China, the 2010 AFC Women’s Asian Cup was the moment. Australia faced DPR Korea (North Korea) in the final.
- Australia took the lead through a young Sam Kerr. The match ended 1–1 in regulation time. Australia held their nerve during the penalty shoot-out, winning 5–4.
- This remains their only Asian Cup title to date.
Other Final Appearances (But Not Wins)
The Matildas have been to the final several times since joining AFC, but have fallen short:
- 2006 – Runners-up to China.
- 2014 – Reached the final again but lost.
- 2018 – Final vs Japan, a tight loss.
Key Facts & Stats
- Only 1 title: the 2010 victory is Australia’s sole Asian Cup championship win.
- Finals reached: at least four times (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018).
- Notable moments:
- Sam Kerr’s goal in the 2010 final gave Australia the lead.
- Their 2010 win on penalties over North Korea after regulation (1–1) highlighted their mental strength.
Why 2010 Was Historic
- First AFC title for Australia: Before 2010, while Australia had success in the Oceania confederation, this was their first major continental trophy in Asia.
- Boost for women’s football in Australia: That win is often considered the turning point — raising visibility, inspiring youth, and building confidence in the squad.
- Qualification for world stages: Winning the Asian Cup often gives direct entry or important advantage in qualifying for the Women’s World Cup.
What About Since 2010?
Though 2010 was their high point, the Matildas have had near misses and strong campaigns since:
- Lost in the finals of 2014 and 2018.
- Have not won the Asian Cup since 2010.
- They will host the tournament in 2026 — a chance to reclaim the title on home soil.
Conclusion
Have the Matildas won the Asian Cup? Yes — their milestone win came in 2010, when they defeated DPR Korea on penalties in the final. That remains their one and only Asian Cup triumph so far. Since then, they’ve been runners-up multiple times and have come close, but haven’t lifted the trophy again.
As ZizaGoal sees it, that win still matters — it’s part of the identity and motivation for every current Matilda. With their role as hosts in 2026, fans have every reason to believe they can add a second Asian Cup title to their history. Keep watching, because the stage is being set for something special.
If you want, I can give you a full list of all Matildas’ biggest finals (wins & losses) in the Asian Cup, with key players and stats — helpful to see how close they’ve come over the years.
